Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method for calculating a distance from a distance sensor to an object, the method comprising: projecting a plurality of beams simultaneously from a light source of the distance sensor, wherein the plurality of beams causes a plurality of lines of dots to be projected onto the object, wherein the plurality of lines of dots are orientated parallel to each other, wherein an appearance of each line of dots of the plurality of lines of dots on the object is inclined by an angle ε of between minus forty-five and plus forty-five degrees relative to a line that is normal to a plane of the light source, wherein the angle ε counters a winding direction against an angle α that is greater than zero degrees, and wherein the light source is one of a plurality of light sources, and each light source of the plurality of light sources projects a respective plurality of beams that causes a respective plurality of lines of dots to be projected into the field of view; capturing an image of a field of view using an imaging sensor of the distance sensor, wherein the object is visible in the image and the plurality of lines of dots is also visible in the image, and wherein the plurality of light sources is positioned behind a principal point of the imaging sensor, relative to a direction in which the plurality of beams propagates; and calculating the distance to the object using information in the image.
This invention relates to a method for calculating the distance from a distance sensor to an object using structured light projection. The method addresses challenges in accurate distance measurement, particularly in scenarios where objects have complex surfaces or varying reflectivity, by improving the reliability of structured light-based distance sensing. The method involves projecting multiple beams simultaneously from a light source, creating parallel lines of dots on the object. These lines are inclined at an angle ε between -45 and +45 degrees relative to a normal line of the light source's plane, countering a winding direction against an angle α greater than zero degrees. Multiple light sources are used, each projecting its own set of beams to enhance coverage. An imaging sensor captures an image of the field of view, showing both the object and the projected dot patterns. The light sources are positioned behind the imaging sensor's principal point relative to the beam propagation direction. The distance to the object is then calculated using the captured image data, leveraging the structured light patterns for precise depth information. This approach improves measurement accuracy and robustness in dynamic environments.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of lines of dots forms a pattern that is symmetrical about a center line of the plurality of lines of dots.
The invention relates to a method for forming a pattern of dots, particularly for applications in printing, imaging, or display technologies. The method addresses the challenge of creating visually balanced and aesthetically pleasing dot patterns, which is important for improving image quality, reducing visual artifacts, and enhancing the uniformity of printed or displayed content. The method involves arranging a plurality of lines of dots in a symmetrical pattern about a center line. This symmetry ensures that the dot pattern is evenly distributed, which helps minimize distortions and improves consistency in visual perception. The symmetrical arrangement can be applied in various contexts, such as halftoning, screen printing, or digital displays, where precise dot placement is critical for achieving high-quality results. By maintaining symmetry, the method reduces the likelihood of uneven ink distribution, pixelation, or other visual irregularities that can degrade image quality. The technique is particularly useful in high-resolution applications where fine details and uniformity are essential.
3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of light sources comprises an even number of light sources.
A system and method for controlling a plurality of light sources to generate a desired illumination pattern. The system addresses the problem of achieving uniform or customizable lighting distributions in applications such as displays, sensors, or optical communication, where precise control over light emission is required. The method involves modulating the intensity or activation of individual light sources to produce a specific light pattern, with the ability to adjust the pattern dynamically. The light sources are arranged in a configuration that allows for independent or coordinated control, ensuring flexibility in shaping the emitted light. In one embodiment, the plurality of light sources includes an even number of light sources, which may facilitate symmetric or balanced light distribution, reducing potential asymmetries in the illumination pattern. The system may also incorporate feedback mechanisms to adjust the light sources in real-time based on detected environmental conditions or user inputs. This approach enables precise control over light emission, improving efficiency and adaptability in various lighting applications.
4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the even number is four.
A system and method for processing data involves generating a sequence of numbers, where the sequence includes an even number of elements. The sequence is divided into pairs of elements, and each pair is processed to produce an output. The even number of elements ensures that the sequence can be evenly split into pairs without any remaining elements. In one implementation, the even number is specifically four, meaning the sequence consists of four elements that are divided into two pairs. Each pair is processed independently, and the results are combined to generate a final output. This approach ensures balanced processing and avoids mismatched or incomplete data handling. The method is applicable in various fields, such as data encryption, signal processing, or parallel computing, where structured and predictable data handling is required. The use of an even number, particularly four, simplifies the pairing process and ensures consistency in the output. The system may include a processor configured to execute the steps of generating the sequence, dividing it into pairs, and processing each pair to produce the final output. This method improves efficiency and reliability in data processing tasks by ensuring that all elements are properly paired and processed.
5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of light sources project their respective plurality of beams in a sequence.
A system and method for controlling multiple light sources to project beams in a coordinated sequence. The technology addresses the challenge of dynamically adjusting light patterns in applications such as displays, lighting systems, or optical communication, where precise timing and synchronization of light beams are critical. The method involves a plurality of light sources, each emitting a distinct beam, which are activated in a predefined or programmable sequence. This sequential projection allows for the creation of time-varying light patterns, such as animated displays, synchronized lighting effects, or modulated optical signals. The sequence can be adjusted based on external inputs, such as user commands, sensor feedback, or predefined algorithms, to achieve desired visual or functional outcomes. The system may include control circuitry to manage the timing and intensity of each light source, ensuring accurate synchronization and smooth transitions between beams. This approach enhances flexibility in light projection applications, enabling dynamic and adaptive illumination solutions.
6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the sequence comprises: a first projection of a respective plurality of beams by a first pair of the plurality of light sources; and a second projection of a respective plurality of beams by a second pair of the plurality of light sources, subsequent to the first projection.
This invention describes a method for a distance sensor to calculate the distance to an object. The sensor operates by projecting multiple parallel lines of dots onto the object. These patterns originate from a set of individual light sources, where each light source projects its own group of beams. Each projected line of dots appears inclined by an angle (epsilon, between -45 and +45 degrees) relative to a line normal to the light source, countering a winding angle (alpha, greater than zero) that influences the projection. An imaging sensor then captures an image where both the object and these projected dot patterns are visible. The multiple light sources are strategically positioned behind the imaging sensor's principal point, relative to the direction the light beams travel. The distance to the object is subsequently calculated using information extracted from the captured image. Crucially, the multiple light sources do not project their patterns all at once but rather in a specific sequence. This sequence involves a first pair of these light sources projecting their beams, followed by a second pair of the light sources projecting their beams afterwards. This staged projection allows for sequential illumination. ERROR (embedding): Error: Failed to save embedding: Could not find the 'embedding' column of 'patent_claims' in the schema cache
7. The method of claim 1 , wherein each light source of the plurality of light sources projects its respective plurality of beams in a direction of the object with a common angle relative to an optical axis of the imaging sensor.
This invention relates to an optical imaging system designed to enhance depth sensing or 3D imaging by using multiple light sources to project structured light patterns onto an object. The system addresses the challenge of accurately capturing depth information in varying lighting conditions or complex scenes by ensuring consistent illumination angles. The system includes a plurality of light sources, each emitting a distinct set of light beams directed toward an object. These beams are projected at a uniform angle relative to the optical axis of an imaging sensor, ensuring that the light patterns maintain a consistent spatial relationship with the sensor's field of view. This alignment improves the accuracy of depth calculations by minimizing distortions caused by varying projection angles. The imaging sensor captures reflections of the projected light beams from the object's surface, and the system processes these reflections to generate a depth map or 3D reconstruction. By maintaining a fixed angle between the light sources and the sensor, the system ensures that the structured light patterns remain stable across different scenes, improving robustness in dynamic environments. This approach is particularly useful in applications such as augmented reality, robotics, and industrial inspection, where precise depth sensing is critical. The uniform projection angle enhances the system's ability to handle reflective or textured surfaces, reducing errors in depth estimation.
8. The method of claim 1 , wherein each light source of the plurality of light sources is positioned a common distance from the imaging sensor, wherein the common distance is measured along an optical axis of the imaging sensor.
This invention relates to imaging systems that use multiple light sources to illuminate a scene for an imaging sensor. The problem addressed is ensuring uniform and consistent illumination across the field of view, which is critical for accurate imaging, particularly in applications like machine vision, medical imaging, or industrial inspection. The invention involves positioning each light source in a plurality of light sources at a common distance from the imaging sensor, with this distance measured along the optical axis of the sensor. This ensures that light from each source reaches the sensor at a consistent angle and intensity, reducing variations in illumination that could distort or misrepresent the captured image. The imaging sensor may be a camera or other optical detector, and the light sources may be LEDs, lasers, or other illumination devices. The common distance positioning helps maintain uniform lighting conditions, improving image quality and reliability. This approach is particularly useful in systems where precise and repeatable illumination is required, such as in automated inspection or scientific imaging applications. The invention may also include additional features, such as adjusting the intensity or wavelength of the light sources to further optimize illumination.
9. The method of claim 1 , wherein each light source of the plurality of light sources projects is positioned to create angle α between a direction of projection of a respective plurality of beams and a line that is normal to an optical axis of the imaging sensor.
This invention relates to optical systems for imaging, particularly those using multiple light sources to illuminate a scene for improved imaging performance. The problem addressed is optimizing the arrangement of light sources to enhance image quality while minimizing unwanted reflections or glare that can degrade sensor performance. The system includes a plurality of light sources positioned to project beams at specific angles relative to an imaging sensor. Each light source is oriented such that the direction of its projected beams forms an angle α with a line normal to the optical axis of the imaging sensor. This angular positioning helps control the illumination geometry, reducing direct reflections off surfaces in the scene that could otherwise interfere with the sensor's operation. The arrangement ensures that light is directed in a way that minimizes backscatter or glare while maintaining sufficient illumination for accurate imaging. The imaging sensor captures light from the scene, and the angular positioning of the light sources helps distinguish between desired signal and unwanted reflections. This technique is particularly useful in applications where precise control of illumination is critical, such as in machine vision, microscopy, or industrial inspection systems. The method improves image clarity and contrast by reducing optical noise caused by improperly directed light.
10. The method of claim 9 , wherein the angle α is the same for each light source of the plurality of light sources.
A system and method for controlling a plurality of light sources to achieve uniform illumination involves adjusting the angle of each light source relative to a target surface. The method addresses the problem of uneven lighting in environments where multiple light sources are used, such as in display systems or industrial applications, where variations in light source angles can cause brightness inconsistencies. The solution ensures that each light source in the plurality is oriented at the same angle α relative to the target surface, which helps distribute light evenly across the surface. This uniformity is critical for applications requiring precise illumination, such as in optical sensors, imaging systems, or manufacturing processes where light distribution affects performance. The method may involve mechanical or electronic adjustments to maintain the consistent angle α, ensuring that all light sources contribute equally to the illumination. By standardizing the angle, the system avoids hotspots or dim areas, improving overall lighting quality and reliability. The approach can be applied in various contexts, including backlighting for displays, medical imaging, or automated inspection systems, where consistent lighting is essential for accurate results.
11. The method of claim 9 , wherein the angle α is different for at least two light sources of the plurality of light sources.
A system and method for controlling a plurality of light sources to adjust the angle of emitted light. The technology addresses the challenge of dynamically modifying light distribution in environments where fixed lighting angles are insufficient, such as in adaptive lighting systems for vehicles, displays, or architectural lighting. The method involves adjusting the angle α of light emission for at least two light sources in the plurality, allowing for customized light patterns or directional control. Each light source may be independently controlled to emit light at a unique angle, enabling precise illumination adjustments. The system may include mechanisms such as adjustable reflectors, lenses, or actuators to modify the emission angle. By varying the angle α for different light sources, the system can create dynamic lighting effects, improve visibility in specific directions, or optimize energy efficiency by focusing light where needed. This approach enhances flexibility in lighting applications where static angles are limiting.
12. The method of claim 9 , wherein the angle α is at least thirty degrees.
Technical Summary: This invention relates to a method for optimizing the orientation of a component in a mechanical or structural system to improve performance, particularly in applications where angular positioning affects efficiency, stability, or functionality. The method addresses the challenge of determining an optimal angle for a component to achieve desired operational outcomes, such as maximizing load distribution, minimizing stress, or enhancing fluid flow dynamics. The method involves calculating or adjusting the angle α of a component relative to a reference plane or axis. The angle α is defined as the inclination or deviation of the component from a baseline position. The invention specifies that the angle α must be at least thirty degrees to ensure the component operates within a predefined range that achieves the intended benefits. This angular constraint may be critical for applications where smaller angles fail to provide sufficient performance improvements or where structural integrity could be compromised. The method may include steps such as measuring the current angle of the component, comparing it to the required minimum angle, and adjusting the component's position if necessary. The adjustment can be performed manually or through automated systems, depending on the application. The invention may also involve monitoring the component's performance after adjustment to verify that the desired outcomes are achieved. This approach is particularly useful in fields such as aerodynamics, civil engineering, robotics, and manufacturing, where precise angular positioning can significantly impact system performance. By enforcing a minimum angle of thirty degrees, the method ensures that the component operates within an effective range, avoiding suboptimal
13. The method of claim 1 , wherein at least two light sources of the plurality of light sources emit light of different intensities.
A system and method for controlling a plurality of light sources to emit light at varying intensities. The invention addresses the need for dynamic lighting control in environments where different illumination levels are required, such as in displays, signage, or ambient lighting applications. The system includes multiple light sources, each capable of emitting light at adjustable intensities. At least two of these light sources emit light at different intensities, allowing for customized lighting effects, energy efficiency, or visual contrast. The method involves selectively activating and adjusting the intensity of individual light sources to achieve a desired lighting pattern or effect. This can be used to enhance visibility, reduce power consumption, or create specific visual displays. The invention may also include additional features such as synchronization of light sources, modulation of light output, or integration with sensors to adapt lighting based on environmental conditions. The system ensures precise control over illumination levels, enabling applications in adaptive lighting, dynamic signage, or energy-efficient lighting solutions.
14. The method of claim 1 , wherein a first light source of the plurality of light sources projects a first plurality of beams, a second light source of the plurality of light sources projects a second plurality of beams, and a first pattern produced by the first plurality of beams when incident on the object is different from a second pattern produced by the second plurality of beams when incident on the object.
This invention relates to a method for illuminating an object with multiple light sources to produce distinct patterns for analysis. The method addresses the challenge of obtaining detailed information about an object's surface or structure by using different illumination patterns to enhance data capture and processing. A system includes a plurality of light sources, each configured to project multiple beams onto the object. The beams from a first light source create a first pattern when incident on the object, while beams from a second light source create a second pattern that differs from the first. The distinct patterns allow for improved detection of surface features, depth information, or other characteristics of the object. By varying the patterns, the method enables more comprehensive analysis compared to using a single light source or uniform illumination. The technique can be applied in fields such as 3D scanning, quality inspection, or biomedical imaging, where precise surface mapping is required. The use of multiple light sources with different beam configurations enhances the system's ability to capture detailed and accurate data about the object's surface.
15. The method of claim 1 , wherein the imaging sensor includes a wide angle lens.
A method for capturing images using an imaging system with an imaging sensor that includes a wide-angle lens. The imaging sensor is configured to capture images over a broad field of view, allowing for the simultaneous capture of a larger area than standard lenses. The system may include additional components such as a processor for analyzing the captured images, a memory for storing the images, and a display for presenting the images. The wide-angle lens enables applications where a broad field of view is necessary, such as surveillance, environmental monitoring, or panoramic photography. The method may involve adjusting the imaging sensor's settings, such as focus, exposure, or resolution, to optimize image quality across the wide field of view. The system may also include image processing techniques to correct distortions or enhance details in the captured images. The wide-angle lens allows for efficient coverage of large areas with a single sensor, reducing the need for multiple sensors or complex multi-camera setups. This method is particularly useful in scenarios where capturing a wide field of view is critical, such as in security systems, autonomous vehicles, or drone-based imaging.
16. The method of claim 1 , wherein the image of the field of view is one of a plurality of images of the field of view, and each image in the plurality of images is captured by a different imaging sensor having a different positional relationship relative to the light source.
This invention relates to imaging systems that capture multiple images of a field of view using different imaging sensors positioned at varying distances or angles relative to a light source. The system addresses challenges in obtaining accurate and detailed images by leveraging multiple perspectives to enhance image quality, reduce shadows, or improve depth perception. Each imaging sensor captures a distinct image of the same field of view, with variations in position relative to the light source allowing for different lighting conditions or viewpoints. The captured images may be combined or analyzed to produce a more comprehensive representation of the scene. This approach is useful in applications requiring high-resolution imaging, such as medical imaging, industrial inspection, or augmented reality, where single-sensor limitations like shadowing or limited depth information are problematic. The method ensures that the positional differences between sensors and the light source are accounted for, enabling precise alignment or fusion of the multiple images. The system may include calibration steps to ensure accurate positional relationships between the sensors and the light source, improving the consistency and reliability of the captured data.
17. The method of claim 16 , wherein each different imaging sensor has different optical specifications.
This invention relates to a system for capturing and processing images using multiple imaging sensors with distinct optical specifications. The system addresses the challenge of obtaining high-quality images under varying conditions by leveraging sensors optimized for different optical parameters, such as focal length, aperture size, or spectral sensitivity. Each sensor is configured to capture images with unique optical characteristics, allowing the system to adapt to different environments or imaging requirements. The captured images are then processed to combine or analyze the data from the different sensors, enhancing overall image quality, dynamic range, or depth perception. The system may include mechanisms to synchronize the sensors, align their outputs, or apply computational techniques to merge or compare the images. This approach enables applications such as advanced photography, surveillance, medical imaging, or autonomous navigation, where adaptability to diverse optical conditions is critical. The invention ensures that the imaging system can dynamically adjust to environmental changes or user needs by utilizing sensors with tailored optical properties.
18. The method of claim 1 , wherein the angle ε is defined from a view from a point from which the plurality of beams is projected to the object, and the angle α is defined from a view from the object.
This invention relates to a method for determining the position of an object using multiple projected beams. The problem addressed is accurately measuring the object's position by accounting for angular relationships between the projection source and the object. The method involves projecting a plurality of beams onto the object and measuring the angles formed by these beams. The angle ε is defined from the perspective of the projection source, representing the angular spread of the beams as they are emitted. The angle α is defined from the perspective of the object, representing the angular spread of the beams as they are received. By analyzing these angles, the method calculates the object's position relative to the projection source. The technique improves accuracy by considering the geometric relationships between the source and the object, reducing errors caused by misalignment or environmental factors. The method is particularly useful in applications requiring precise spatial measurements, such as robotics, automation, and optical sensing systems. The invention ensures reliable position determination by incorporating both source-side and object-side angular measurements.
19. The method of claim 1 , wherein the winding of the angle α is clockwise, and a winding direction of angle ε is counter clockwise.
This invention relates to a method for controlling the winding directions of angles in a mechanical or electromechanical system, particularly in applications involving rotational motion. The problem addressed is ensuring precise and coordinated winding directions to optimize performance, prevent mechanical interference, or maintain system stability. The method involves adjusting the winding of a first angle, denoted as α, in a clockwise direction. Simultaneously, a second angle, denoted as ε, is wound in the opposite, counterclockwise direction. This coordinated winding ensures that the system operates efficiently without conflicting rotational forces. The method may be applied in various mechanical systems, such as gears, motors, or actuators, where controlled winding directions are critical for proper functioning. The invention may also include additional steps, such as monitoring the winding process to ensure accuracy or adjusting the winding speed to maintain synchronization between the two angles. The method ensures that the system remains balanced and avoids mechanical stress or damage due to misaligned winding directions.
20. A computer-readable storage device storing a plurality of instructions which, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform operations for calculating a distance from a distance sensor to an object, the operations comprising: projecting a plurality of beams simultaneously from a light source of the distance sensor, wherein the plurality of beams causes a plurality of lines of dots to be projected onto the object, wherein the plurality of lines of dots are orientated parallel to each other, wherein an appearance of each line of dots of the plurality of lines of dots on the object is inclined by an angle ε of between minus forty-five and plus forty-five degrees relative to a line that is normal to a plane of the light source, wherein the angle ε counters a winding direction against an angle α that is greater than zero degrees, and wherein the light source is one of a plurality of light sources, and each light source of the plurality of light sources projects a respective plurality of beams that causes a respective plurality of lines of dots to be projected into the field of view; capturing an image of a field of view using an imaging sensor of the distance sensor, wherein the object is visible in the image and the plurality of lines of dots is also visible in the image, and wherein the plurality of light sources is positioned behind a principal point of the imaging sensor, relative to a direction in which the plurality of beams propagates; and calculating the distance to the object using information in the image.
This invention relates to a distance measurement system using structured light projection for object detection. The system addresses challenges in accurate distance calculation by mitigating distortions caused by object rotation or winding effects. The method involves projecting multiple parallel lines of dots onto an object from a light source, where each line is inclined at an angle ε between -45 and +45 degrees relative to a normal line of the light source plane. This inclination counters a winding angle α (greater than zero) to improve measurement accuracy. Multiple light sources are used, each projecting its own set of parallel dot lines into the field of view. An imaging sensor captures an image of the scene, showing both the object and the projected dot patterns. The light sources are positioned behind the imaging sensor's principal point along the beam propagation direction. The system then calculates the distance to the object by analyzing the captured image data. This approach enhances precision by compensating for rotational distortions and leveraging multi-source projections for robust depth information.
21. A distance sensor for calculating a distance to an object, comprising: a light source of the distance sensor to project a plurality of beams simultaneously, wherein the plurality of beams causes a plurality of lines of dots to be projected onto an object, wherein the plurality of lines of dots are orientated parallel to each other, wherein an appearance of each line of dots of the plurality of lines of dots on the object is inclined by an angle of between minus forty-five and plus forty-five degrees relative to a line that is normal to a plane of the light source, wherein the angle ε counters a winding direction against an angle α that is greater than zero degrees, and wherein the light source is one of a plurality of light sources, and each light source of the plurality of light sources projects a respective plurality of beams that causes a respective plurality of lines of dots to be projected into the field of view; an imaging sensor of the distance sensor to capture an image of a field of view, wherein the object is visible in the image and the plurality of lines of dots is also visible in the image, and wherein the plurality of light sources is positioned behind a principal point of the imaging sensor, relative to a direction in which the plurality of beams propagates; and circuitry to calculate the distance to the object using information in the image.
This invention relates to a distance sensor system designed to measure the distance to an object by projecting multiple lines of dots onto the object and analyzing the captured image. The system addresses challenges in accurate distance measurement, particularly in dynamic or complex environments where single-beam or grid-based projections may fail to provide sufficient resolution or robustness. The distance sensor includes a light source that projects multiple beams simultaneously, forming parallel lines of dots on the object. These lines are inclined at an angle between -45 and +45 degrees relative to a normal line of the light source's plane, countering a winding direction caused by an angle α greater than zero degrees. Multiple light sources are used, each projecting its own set of parallel dot lines into the field of view. An imaging sensor captures an image of the scene, showing both the object and the projected dot patterns. The light sources are positioned behind the imaging sensor's principal point along the beam propagation direction to minimize interference. Circuitry processes the captured image to calculate the distance to the object based on the dot pattern's appearance. The inclined projection and multi-source design enhance measurement accuracy by improving pattern visibility and reducing distortion. This approach is particularly useful in applications requiring high-resolution 3D mapping or object tracking in real-time.
Unknown
November 26, 2019
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